Changes bring city traffic measures

The introduction of an X-ray scanner and modifications to Hamilton Cargo Docks have resulted in changes to the layout of the entrance.

During the summer the entrance to the docks moved to the junction of Court and Front Streets. This change allows for container trucks to enter and leave the docks faster and easier.

Traffic lights were installed at Court and Front Streets, where none existed previously.

Motorists travelling west on Front Street now have three travelling options — turn left into the docks, continue straight, or turn right.

Commuters

Patrick Cooper, City of Hamilton city engineer, said: “This was the greatest change to the intersection. Previously there was no left turn.

“We monitored the junction very closely when the lights were installed and made sure there was plenty of notice for pedestrians and motorists alike that the changes would take place. We are pleased with how quickly the change was adopted by commuters.”

In addition to the new docks entrance, there have been a number of other changes.

The former bus stop outside the Customs House had to be removed, and pedestrian crossings added instead.

Mr Cooper said: “Throughout the city we have begun replacing 30-year-old traffic lights with the new Puffin lights (Puffin stands for pedestrian user-friendly intelligent lights).

“These lights are installed at the Front and Court Street intersection.

“An important safety feature with the lights is that pedestrians no longer have to look across the street to find out when it is safe to cross.

“The ‘walk/don’t walk’ icon is located above the push button. This allows for people who may have a visual impairment to see the ‘walk/don’t walk’ icons easier.

“Additionally the screen is positioned so that the pedestrian can see when the icon changes and monitor the traffic at the same time.”

He added: “Another adjustment to the area was the removal of a few parking spaces and the timing of when cars can park on the north side of Front Street, between Court and King Streets.

“Parking restrictions have been implemented from Monday to Friday between 8am and 10am and again from 4pm and 6pm.

“These parking modifications are in place to accommodate the smooth flow of traffic during rush hour.

“The ‘no parking’ restrictions prevent double-parking, which often happens along this stretch of road, and the removal of parking spaces provides a wide turning axis for tractor trailers leaving the docks.

“As with all major road changes, we will continue to monitor the motorist and pedestrian experience in this area.

“Studies of traffic flow will also continue, and — working with the traffic consultant — we will make adjustments to the timing of the lights to ensure there is the maximum flow of traffic through the area during the busy times and to clear the intersections as quickly as possible.”